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Small Acts of Defiance: A Novel of WWII and Paris
""In Small Acts of Defiance, Michelle Wright paints a beautifully intimate portrait that celebrates the courage and resilience of the human spirit.""— Jane Harper, author of The Survivors
A stunning debut WWII novel from award-winning short story writer Michelle Wright, about the small but courageous acts a young woman performs against the growing anti-Jewish measures in Nazi-occupied Paris.
“Doing nothing is still a choice. A choice to stand aside and let it happen.”
January 1940: After a devastating tragedy, young Australian woman Lucie and her mother Yvonne are forced to leave home and flee to France. There they seek help from the only family they have left, Lucie’s uncle, Gérard.
As the Second World War engulfs Europe, the two women find themselves trapped in German-occupied Paris, sharing a cramped apartment with the authoritarian Gérard and his extremist views. Drawing upon her artistic talents, Lucie risks her own safety to engage in small acts of defiance against the occupying Nazi forces and the collaborationist French regime – illustrating pro-resistance tracts and forging identity cards.
Faced with the escalating brutality of anti-Jewish measures, and the indifference of so many of her fellow Parisians, Lucie must decide how far she will go to protect her friends and defend the rights of others before it’s too late.
A stunning debut WWII novel from award-winning short story writer Michelle Wright, about the small but courageous acts a young woman performs against the growing anti-Jewish measures in Nazi-occupied Paris.
“Doing nothing is still a choice. A choice to stand aside and let it happen.”
January 1940: After a devastating tragedy, young Australian woman Lucie and her mother Yvonne are forced to leave home and flee to France. There they seek help from the only family they have left, Lucie’s uncle, Gérard.
As the Second World War engulfs Europe, the two women find themselves trapped in German-occupied Paris, sharing a cramped apartment with the authoritarian Gérard and his extremist views. Drawing upon her artistic talents, Lucie risks her own safety to engage in small acts of defiance against the occupying Nazi forces and the collaborationist French regime – illustrating pro-resistance tracts and forging identity cards.
Faced with the escalating brutality of anti-Jewish measures, and the indifference of so many of her fellow Parisians, Lucie must decide how far she will go to protect her friends and defend the rights of others before it’s too late.
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First published June 1, 2021
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About the author
Michelle Wright
8 books99 followersMichelle Wright is an award-winning writer who brings to life a remarkable range of characters, winning many awards, including The Age short story competition. Her collection of short stories, Fine, was shortlisted for the Victorian Premier's Literary Award for an Unpublished Manuscript and published in 2016.
Michelle's debut novel, Small Acts of Defiance, is the fruit of her deep love for Paris - her home for 11 years - as well as her decades of passion for French language, culture and history.
In 2017, Michelle was awarded a six-month Australia Council for the Arts residency at the Cite Internationale des Arts in Paris to carry out the extensive research needed to create her vivid portrayal of life in occupied France.
Michelle's debut novel, Small Acts of Defiance, is the fruit of her deep love for Paris - her home for 11 years - as well as her decades of passion for French language, culture and history.
In 2017, Michelle was awarded a six-month Australia Council for the Arts residency at the Cite Internationale des Arts in Paris to carry out the extensive research needed to create her vivid portrayal of life in occupied France.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
July 16, 2021
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
An elegantly written debut World War II story that begins in 1940, set in Nazi-occupied Paris.
Sixteen year old Lucie and her French born mother Yvonne arrive in Paris from Australia to live with Yvonne’s brother after her father’s tragic death and the loss of their home. Here she meets Aline a university student who is Jewish and takes part in uni student demonstrations against the invasion. As they become close friends we follow their journey.
Normal life begins to change in Paris and becomes especially more dangerous for the Jews as they are dictated to what they can and cannot do but it’s also a struggle for the French people.
As time progresses we see the changes in the way the Jews are singled out from the French and each day the right to freedom becomes more restricted. There are arrests and some Jews never return, their homes quickly emptied and valuables sent to Germany.
With no way for them to escape the city which is now filled with fear and hatred, Lucie uses her artistic talents to become involved in small acts of defiance against the Germans and to support Aline and her family. How much further will she go and how much danger is she putting herself in to defend the rights of others?
It was sad so see the authorities rewarding French citizens for denouncing so-called traitors in the community which turned people against each other and also to see some people’s indifference to what was happening to the Jews. Can you imagine this happening in your own home country, how would you react?
I found this a thought provoking, authentic and meticulously researched story. So glad I was given the opportunity to read it, thank you Allen & Unwin.
Publication Date 1 June 2021
An elegantly written debut World War II story that begins in 1940, set in Nazi-occupied Paris.
Sixteen year old Lucie and her French born mother Yvonne arrive in Paris from Australia to live with Yvonne’s brother after her father’s tragic death and the loss of their home. Here she meets Aline a university student who is Jewish and takes part in uni student demonstrations against the invasion. As they become close friends we follow their journey.
Normal life begins to change in Paris and becomes especially more dangerous for the Jews as they are dictated to what they can and cannot do but it’s also a struggle for the French people.
As time progresses we see the changes in the way the Jews are singled out from the French and each day the right to freedom becomes more restricted. There are arrests and some Jews never return, their homes quickly emptied and valuables sent to Germany.
With no way for them to escape the city which is now filled with fear and hatred, Lucie uses her artistic talents to become involved in small acts of defiance against the Germans and to support Aline and her family. How much further will she go and how much danger is she putting herself in to defend the rights of others?
It was sad so see the authorities rewarding French citizens for denouncing so-called traitors in the community which turned people against each other and also to see some people’s indifference to what was happening to the Jews. Can you imagine this happening in your own home country, how would you react?
I found this a thought provoking, authentic and meticulously researched story. So glad I was given the opportunity to read it, thank you Allen & Unwin.
Publication Date 1 June 2021
June 23, 2021
Four and a half stars.
After tragedy shatters their lives French born Yvonne, reaches out to the brother she has not had contact with for many years. After his answer they prepare to leave Australia and go to France, which given what was happening at the time 1940 seems a strange decision to put themselves in harm's way. Unless that is ...Yvonne and Lucie have no other choice, which it appears to be. So they head to France and a life with Yvonne’s brother Gerard who blames the Germans for the deaths of his wife and daughter. As world war 2 engulfs Europe, Yvonne and Lucie end up trapped in German occupied Paris. Using her artistic talents Lucie becomes involved in small acts of defiance against the occupying forces. Meanwhile French citizens are turning against their Jewish neighbours. What is the world coming to? Where is love and compassion? How far will Lucie go to help her friend Aline and other Jews adversely impacted by the Germans?
This is an interesting look at the situation in France. Lucie is easy to like and to relate to. The story shows the devastating impact of war and the trauma endured by the Jews and those who sought to help them during the war years. This debut novel is a compelling and easy read as it gives a different slant to some of the world War 2 novels I have read.
Well researched, it clearly shows both the good and bad of humanity, causing us to wonder how we might react in similar circumstances. An engrossing read, beautifully written. A story that touches the emotions. My thanks to Allen and Unwin for my ARC to read and review. Greatly appreciated. A story that will appeal to and challenge those who read it. A definite recommended read.
After tragedy shatters their lives French born Yvonne, reaches out to the brother she has not had contact with for many years. After his answer they prepare to leave Australia and go to France, which given what was happening at the time 1940 seems a strange decision to put themselves in harm's way. Unless that is ...Yvonne and Lucie have no other choice, which it appears to be. So they head to France and a life with Yvonne’s brother Gerard who blames the Germans for the deaths of his wife and daughter. As world war 2 engulfs Europe, Yvonne and Lucie end up trapped in German occupied Paris. Using her artistic talents Lucie becomes involved in small acts of defiance against the occupying forces. Meanwhile French citizens are turning against their Jewish neighbours. What is the world coming to? Where is love and compassion? How far will Lucie go to help her friend Aline and other Jews adversely impacted by the Germans?
This is an interesting look at the situation in France. Lucie is easy to like and to relate to. The story shows the devastating impact of war and the trauma endured by the Jews and those who sought to help them during the war years. This debut novel is a compelling and easy read as it gives a different slant to some of the world War 2 novels I have read.
Well researched, it clearly shows both the good and bad of humanity, causing us to wonder how we might react in similar circumstances. An engrossing read, beautifully written. A story that touches the emotions. My thanks to Allen and Unwin for my ARC to read and review. Greatly appreciated. A story that will appeal to and challenge those who read it. A definite recommended read.
May 10, 2022
Lucie was born and raised in Australia, it is the only home she has ever known.
After an unfortunate incident where her home caught on fire and her father passed away in the fire.
As Lucie and her mother Yvonne have nothing left, they are left with no choice but to move to Paris, to receive assistance from her Uncle whom Lucie has never met. There are rumours of a possible war , but they are currently only rumours, and it is currently being labelled as a "fake war", as Lucie and her Mother cannot survive on their own in Australia, they take the little money Uncle Gerrard has offered them and use it to for their passage to France to live with relative in his small apartment.
Although Lucie is in a foreign country, that is on the edge of a war breaking out, Lucie is able to spend a little bit of time familiarising herself with Paris, and really starts to love and enjoy the city just prior to the breakout of the war.
Lucie finds herself a job at the local art gallery where she paints postcards of Paris. It is here in this job that she forms some special friendships, and learns about her Parisian friends who are making these "small acts of defiance".
Lucie is shown, by her Parisian friends the true extent of the war, and what is happening when the Jews are extracted from Paris. Lucie needs to make a decision as to whether she will stay safe and secure and turn a blind eye, or will she join her friends in their small acts of defiance.
I enjoyed the thrill of this book, Lucie and her friend Aline are both wonderfully dramatic characters. I highly recommend this book, and it will definitely hold a permeant place on my shelf for good books.
Big thank you to Allen & Unwin for the copy.
Rated 4 stars
Please visit my blog and follow to see all of my past and future book reviews.
https://www.facebook.com/Kylies-Book-...
After an unfortunate incident where her home caught on fire and her father passed away in the fire.
As Lucie and her mother Yvonne have nothing left, they are left with no choice but to move to Paris, to receive assistance from her Uncle whom Lucie has never met. There are rumours of a possible war , but they are currently only rumours, and it is currently being labelled as a "fake war", as Lucie and her Mother cannot survive on their own in Australia, they take the little money Uncle Gerrard has offered them and use it to for their passage to France to live with relative in his small apartment.
Although Lucie is in a foreign country, that is on the edge of a war breaking out, Lucie is able to spend a little bit of time familiarising herself with Paris, and really starts to love and enjoy the city just prior to the breakout of the war.
Lucie finds herself a job at the local art gallery where she paints postcards of Paris. It is here in this job that she forms some special friendships, and learns about her Parisian friends who are making these "small acts of defiance".
Lucie is shown, by her Parisian friends the true extent of the war, and what is happening when the Jews are extracted from Paris. Lucie needs to make a decision as to whether she will stay safe and secure and turn a blind eye, or will she join her friends in their small acts of defiance.
I enjoyed the thrill of this book, Lucie and her friend Aline are both wonderfully dramatic characters. I highly recommend this book, and it will definitely hold a permeant place on my shelf for good books.
Big thank you to Allen & Unwin for the copy.
Rated 4 stars
Please visit my blog and follow to see all of my past and future book reviews.
https://www.facebook.com/Kylies-Book-...
January 2, 2022
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Small Acts of Defiance by Michelle Wright. (2021).
January, 1940. After a tragedy, young Australian woman Lucie and her French mother Yvonne are forced to move to Paris to live with Lucie's authoritarian uncle Gérard. They find themselves trapped as the Second World War engulfs Europe. Using her artistic talents, Lucie engages in small acts of defiance against the occupying forces and the collaborationist French regime, which includes French citizens denouncing so-called "traitors" in their community. Faced with the escalating brutality of anti-Jewish measures, and the indifference of many Parisians, Lucie must decide how far she will go to defend the lives of others.
This is the debut novel of an award-winning writer, set in Paris and featuring 16 year old Australian young woman Lucie. What I really appreciated about this book was the exploration of how little actions can make a difference; how the smallest act by one person can produce a follow on effect in society. I liked the character of Lucie, although I kept forgetting she was only 16 at the beginning of the novel - I think it was a good demonstration of how many children and teenagers are forced to grow up in times of war and conflict. It's clear the author has put a lot of research into this book and it feels like the reader is there with Lucie which is a result of how well-written the story is.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this novel for readers that enjoy historical fiction, particularly WWII based novels.
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Small Acts of Defiance by Michelle Wright. (2021).
January, 1940. After a tragedy, young Australian woman Lucie and her French mother Yvonne are forced to move to Paris to live with Lucie's authoritarian uncle Gérard. They find themselves trapped as the Second World War engulfs Europe. Using her artistic talents, Lucie engages in small acts of defiance against the occupying forces and the collaborationist French regime, which includes French citizens denouncing so-called "traitors" in their community. Faced with the escalating brutality of anti-Jewish measures, and the indifference of many Parisians, Lucie must decide how far she will go to defend the lives of others.
This is the debut novel of an award-winning writer, set in Paris and featuring 16 year old Australian young woman Lucie. What I really appreciated about this book was the exploration of how little actions can make a difference; how the smallest act by one person can produce a follow on effect in society. I liked the character of Lucie, although I kept forgetting she was only 16 at the beginning of the novel - I think it was a good demonstration of how many children and teenagers are forced to grow up in times of war and conflict. It's clear the author has put a lot of research into this book and it feels like the reader is there with Lucie which is a result of how well-written the story is.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this novel for readers that enjoy historical fiction, particularly WWII based novels.
June 11, 2021
This is a really well written debut story that is set in occupied Paris during World War 2, taking in the terrible things that happen to the Jewish people we meet a young Australian girl sixteen year old Lucie who has arrived in Paris at the start of the war with her French mother Yvonne after tragedy in Australia, times were very hard and Lucie grew from strength to strength, from child to woman.
When Lucie and her mother arrive to live with her uncle Gerard there is a lot of worry and tension as the Germans are taking over Paris and Lucie is shocked and horrified by the things that they seem to be doing and life was very different from the one she had known but Lucie still had her sketchbook and pencils and was capturing the faces of the people as she learned her way around Paris.
It wasn’t long before Lucie met up with Aline a young university student and her family they are Jewish and Lucie is soon helping as much as she can with drawing tracts that are being left around Paris with the hope that people will stay strong and stand up to the Nazis. Things are getting harder and the Nazis are taking the Jewish people away to who knows where but still Lucie helps anyway she can in dangerous conditions.
I have read a lot of stories set in this era lately and they involve the Resistance with this one MS Wright has taken a really good look at the plight of the Jews in Paris and the cruelty that they had to put up with but it also showed the strength and courage of those who helped them and supported these people, people like Lucie and her mother Yvonne even when the danger was so strong with neighbours reporting each other. This is a heart wrenching story at times but it also showed what people can do even if they seem to be small acts of defiance to stand up to the cruelty in the world.
A fabulous debut, one that I would highly recommend the characters are bought to life and the emotions flowed.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
When Lucie and her mother arrive to live with her uncle Gerard there is a lot of worry and tension as the Germans are taking over Paris and Lucie is shocked and horrified by the things that they seem to be doing and life was very different from the one she had known but Lucie still had her sketchbook and pencils and was capturing the faces of the people as she learned her way around Paris.
It wasn’t long before Lucie met up with Aline a young university student and her family they are Jewish and Lucie is soon helping as much as she can with drawing tracts that are being left around Paris with the hope that people will stay strong and stand up to the Nazis. Things are getting harder and the Nazis are taking the Jewish people away to who knows where but still Lucie helps anyway she can in dangerous conditions.
I have read a lot of stories set in this era lately and they involve the Resistance with this one MS Wright has taken a really good look at the plight of the Jews in Paris and the cruelty that they had to put up with but it also showed the strength and courage of those who helped them and supported these people, people like Lucie and her mother Yvonne even when the danger was so strong with neighbours reporting each other. This is a heart wrenching story at times but it also showed what people can do even if they seem to be small acts of defiance to stand up to the cruelty in the world.
A fabulous debut, one that I would highly recommend the characters are bought to life and the emotions flowed.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my copy to read and review.
August 6, 2021
Set during WWII in Paris, Lucie finds herself in a city still traumatised by WWI. Having moved back to Paris after the death of her Australian husband, native Parisian Yvonne, moves in with her widower brother Gérard. From the start Lucie who is just 17 feels uncomfortable around her Uncle who seems very bitter and lonely.
Lucie starts to find her way around Paris and discovers behind all the beauty and romance of the city there is a somewhat dark heart. Then comes the German occupation and Lucie is forced to decide between keeping the peace at home or assisting her new Jewish friends in their plight.
This provides a great perspective of Paris during the war and I can recommend this book to those who enjoy good historical fiction.
Thank you Allen & Unwin for the paperback ARC that I won.
Lucie starts to find her way around Paris and discovers behind all the beauty and romance of the city there is a somewhat dark heart. Then comes the German occupation and Lucie is forced to decide between keeping the peace at home or assisting her new Jewish friends in their plight.
This provides a great perspective of Paris during the war and I can recommend this book to those who enjoy good historical fiction.
Thank you Allen & Unwin for the paperback ARC that I won.
July 8, 2021
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4.5 stars
‘Every little way we can find to thumb our noses at the Germans is a small act of resistance.’
Refined and ornate, Small Acts of Defiance is the debut novel from Victorian based author Michelle Wright. After eleven years spent living in Paris, Wright has integrated her first-hand knowledge of French history, culture, society, language and location into her remarkable first novel. What emerges from this deep understanding about Paris is a unforgettable tale of resistance, empowerment and taking a stand, no matter how small, during a time of great turmoil.
Opening in early 1940, a shocking family tragedy has fallen on a young Australian girl named Lucie and her French mother. As a result, this mother and daughter must leave Australia for France, after receiving support from Lucie’s uncle in France. When Lucie and her mother arrive at the French capital, they discover that Paris is a dangerous and divided city. With the rising threat of Nazism and extremist views prevalent across the city, no one is safe. For Yvonne and her daughter Lucie, their biggest threat is Yvonne’s brother Gerard, a radical with revolutionary views. But Lucie is a young woman with artistic talents and an altruistic attitude. Lucie is determined to do something and she vows to take a stand against the brutal acts she witnesses against both the locals and the Jewish people of the city. Lucie’s safety is compromised by these acts of resistance, so how long can she keep up the fight?
It certainly doesn’t surprise me that the author of Small Acts of Defiance is an acclaimed and award-winning short fiction writer. Although this is Michelle Wright’s first novel, her prose is beautifully sculpted, refined and expressive. After receiving a six-moth residency in 2017 to conduct the research required to compose an authentic novel about occupied France, the final result is impressive. I really appreciated all Small Acts of Defiance had to offer.
Although most of Small Acts of Defiance is set in occupied France, we have an opening link to Australia. Wright captures the shock, despair and raw emotion attached to the loss of Lucie’s father. As a result, Lucie’s mother Yvonne is forced to turn her back on Australia and move to France. I can only begin to imagine how both Yvonne and Lucie felt about this difficult journey. Wright delves into feelings of displacement and transition as her leads negotiate their new life in Paris. The introduction of Yvonne’s brother Gerard as their saviour but eventually their dangerous foe adds further distress to this moving tale. Wright’s depiction of the sinking emotions attached to loss and starting over during a time of significant uncertainty is very moving. I appreciated this area of Small Acts of Defiance.
With the author’s own experiences as a resident of France for over a decade aiding the crux of this novel, there is a strong air of authenticity to Small Acts of Defiance. In particular, Wright’s presentation of the locations featured in this novel, which she describes down to the street level is truly fantastic. We get a very good feel for the location specific attitudes, practices, values and ideals of this time. It sure was a difficult era to negotiate and to observe this radical time through the wide-eyed viewpoint of a young Australian girl was a creative move by Wright. This newcomer lens was applied extremely well to the narrative. After reading a great deal of books set in occupied France, it was refreshing to see this tumultuous period relayed from the perspective of an outsider.
It was great to witness the characters in this novel take a stand against the terrible events happening around them. Wright’s protagonists are strong, brave, resistant, benevolent and knowing. This book really celebrates the strength of ordinary women at this time performing humanitarian acts and rebelling against a strict regime. The unselfish and charitable acts highlighted in Small Acts of Defiance displays the positive forms of humanity that existed during this perilous period. On the other side of this, Wright reveals the terrible and unthinkable movements that were continually challenging the everyday people of Paris. Despite the fact that I have read widely about some of the atrocities that occurred to the Jewish people that lived in Paris in other texts, this novel still hit me with a ton a bricks. Wright’s depiction and examination of this time is both precise and heartbreaking, illuminating a deeply regrettable time in French history. I appreciated the feminist stance and the glance at the ordinary people of this country conducting such life saving acts.
Many of the scenes described by Wright in Small Acts of Defiance allows the reader to consider their stance, or perhaps even weigh up their own possible actions in response to the situations faced by the cast in this novel. Would you have the courage to take a stand – and how far would you go if your own safety was compromised? These are lingering and weighty questions that will remain with you long after closing Small Acts of Defiance, an affective silhouette of occupied times.
*Thanks extended to Allen & Unwin for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Small Acts of Defiance is book #62 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
4.5 stars
‘Every little way we can find to thumb our noses at the Germans is a small act of resistance.’
Refined and ornate, Small Acts of Defiance is the debut novel from Victorian based author Michelle Wright. After eleven years spent living in Paris, Wright has integrated her first-hand knowledge of French history, culture, society, language and location into her remarkable first novel. What emerges from this deep understanding about Paris is a unforgettable tale of resistance, empowerment and taking a stand, no matter how small, during a time of great turmoil.
Opening in early 1940, a shocking family tragedy has fallen on a young Australian girl named Lucie and her French mother. As a result, this mother and daughter must leave Australia for France, after receiving support from Lucie’s uncle in France. When Lucie and her mother arrive at the French capital, they discover that Paris is a dangerous and divided city. With the rising threat of Nazism and extremist views prevalent across the city, no one is safe. For Yvonne and her daughter Lucie, their biggest threat is Yvonne’s brother Gerard, a radical with revolutionary views. But Lucie is a young woman with artistic talents and an altruistic attitude. Lucie is determined to do something and she vows to take a stand against the brutal acts she witnesses against both the locals and the Jewish people of the city. Lucie’s safety is compromised by these acts of resistance, so how long can she keep up the fight?
It certainly doesn’t surprise me that the author of Small Acts of Defiance is an acclaimed and award-winning short fiction writer. Although this is Michelle Wright’s first novel, her prose is beautifully sculpted, refined and expressive. After receiving a six-moth residency in 2017 to conduct the research required to compose an authentic novel about occupied France, the final result is impressive. I really appreciated all Small Acts of Defiance had to offer.
Although most of Small Acts of Defiance is set in occupied France, we have an opening link to Australia. Wright captures the shock, despair and raw emotion attached to the loss of Lucie’s father. As a result, Lucie’s mother Yvonne is forced to turn her back on Australia and move to France. I can only begin to imagine how both Yvonne and Lucie felt about this difficult journey. Wright delves into feelings of displacement and transition as her leads negotiate their new life in Paris. The introduction of Yvonne’s brother Gerard as their saviour but eventually their dangerous foe adds further distress to this moving tale. Wright’s depiction of the sinking emotions attached to loss and starting over during a time of significant uncertainty is very moving. I appreciated this area of Small Acts of Defiance.
With the author’s own experiences as a resident of France for over a decade aiding the crux of this novel, there is a strong air of authenticity to Small Acts of Defiance. In particular, Wright’s presentation of the locations featured in this novel, which she describes down to the street level is truly fantastic. We get a very good feel for the location specific attitudes, practices, values and ideals of this time. It sure was a difficult era to negotiate and to observe this radical time through the wide-eyed viewpoint of a young Australian girl was a creative move by Wright. This newcomer lens was applied extremely well to the narrative. After reading a great deal of books set in occupied France, it was refreshing to see this tumultuous period relayed from the perspective of an outsider.
It was great to witness the characters in this novel take a stand against the terrible events happening around them. Wright’s protagonists are strong, brave, resistant, benevolent and knowing. This book really celebrates the strength of ordinary women at this time performing humanitarian acts and rebelling against a strict regime. The unselfish and charitable acts highlighted in Small Acts of Defiance displays the positive forms of humanity that existed during this perilous period. On the other side of this, Wright reveals the terrible and unthinkable movements that were continually challenging the everyday people of Paris. Despite the fact that I have read widely about some of the atrocities that occurred to the Jewish people that lived in Paris in other texts, this novel still hit me with a ton a bricks. Wright’s depiction and examination of this time is both precise and heartbreaking, illuminating a deeply regrettable time in French history. I appreciated the feminist stance and the glance at the ordinary people of this country conducting such life saving acts.
Many of the scenes described by Wright in Small Acts of Defiance allows the reader to consider their stance, or perhaps even weigh up their own possible actions in response to the situations faced by the cast in this novel. Would you have the courage to take a stand – and how far would you go if your own safety was compromised? These are lingering and weighty questions that will remain with you long after closing Small Acts of Defiance, an affective silhouette of occupied times.
*Thanks extended to Allen & Unwin for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Small Acts of Defiance is book #62 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
August 17, 2024
I did not hate this, but I definitely didn't love it. After reading many Holocaust novels, it was interesting to read the experience and perspective of someone who was non Jewish but still living through the horror of WW2. I also realized I do not enjoy 3rd person books.
June 9, 2021
Small Acts of Defiance by Michelle Wright
Synopsis /
May, 1940: After a bitter tragedy, young Australian woman Lucie and her French mother Yvonne are forced to leave home and seek help from the only family they have left-Lucie's uncle, Gérard.
As the Second World War engulfs Europe, the two women find themselves trapped in German-occupied Paris, sharing a cramped apartment with the authoritarian Gerard and his extremist views.
Drawing upon her artistic talents, Lucie risks her own safety to engage in small acts of defiance against the occupying forces and the collaborationist French regime, where the authorities reward French citizens for denouncing so-called 'traitors' in their community.
Faced with the escalating brutality of anti-Jewish measures, and the indifference of so many of her fellow Parisians, Lucie must decide how far she will go to defend the rights of others.
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge thank you to Allen & Unwin for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
About the Author:
In 2017, Wright was awarded a six-month Australia Council for the Arts residency at the Cite Internationale des Arts in Paris to carry out the extensive research needed to create her vivid portrayal of life in occupied France. Michelle's debut novel, Small Acts of Defiance, is the fruit of her deep love for Paris - her home for 11 years - as well as her decades of passion for French language, culture and history.
About the Book:
Michelle Wright has written a meticulously, well-researched piece of historical fiction and, as debut novels go, for me it has been a deeply satisfying read. The book is set in occupied France during World War II, and spans the time period from 1940 through to 1945. And, as the title of the book suggests, it explores cause and effect of the individual choices one person can make on society as a whole.
Australia, 1940. After the death of her husband, Yvonne Blackburn decides now is the time to return to her beloved homeland. Yvonne and her daughter Lucie pack their belongings and embark on the long trek by boat to Yvonne’s beloved Paris. Arriving in Paris at a time when the German invasion of Poland was dawning, both Lucie and her mother struggled to adjust to a life so different to the one they had just left behind in Australia. Living with her brother, Gérard, Yvonne realises both she and Lucie are totally dependent on him for their home and livelihood. Paris was now controlled by the brutal hand of the Nazi regime. It had become a place of fear and distrust. As the war effort began to encroach more towards Paris, the Germans began to enforce more rules and regulations upon Parisienne citizens. Food rationing and the beginning of harsh anti-Jewish laws saw many people ‘turn’ on those with Jewish heritage. Wright does a fabulous job of highlighting these atrocities without glorifying them.
Lucie loved to sketch. Her artistic talent and love for drawing [she believed] came from her father, who also loved to draw. Lucie loved nothing more than to roam aimlessly through the streets of Paris sketching sights and to leave her drawings folded up and hidden amongst cracks in buildings or tree trunks.
She carried her notebook with her everywhere and found quiet spots to sketch. She left the drawings where she drew them, folded up and tucked away for others to discover.
It was on one of these outings that Lucie discovered an Art shop and upon entering and admiring all the stocks of brushes and canvases, is introduced to the owner Margot, who happens to be a fellow Australian. Through her burgeoning friendship with Margot, Lucie is introduced to a young Jewish woman called Aline, Aline’s mother Simone and grandfather Samuel. Lucie and Aline become fast friends. When the Nazi’s begin a crackdown on all French-Jews, Alina’s grandfather Samuel is the first of her family to be arrested and sent away to a detention camp.
’And you know, Lucie’, said Samuel. ‘I learned a long time ago that giving up never solves anything’. He clasped his hands together and spoke slowly, his tone suddenly more solemn. ‘Giving up means the absence of hope. And if we don’t hold on to hope, we become complicit, we enable them.’ He gazed through the window at a pigeon struggling to trip the metal railing of the balcony. ‘Their soldiers can occupy our city and our country, but only we can decide if we’ll let them occupy our minds.’
In the face of Nazi brutality, Lucie and Aline decide to start administering ‘small acts of defiance’ and in doing so, refuse to bend to the will of their German oppressor.
’You did well’, said Aline. ‘Nerves of steel.’ Lucie nodded but could feel her fingers trembling. She tried to convince herself it was because of the cold, but she knew that wasn’t true. She’d been terrified out there on her own, doubting she had the courage that was needed. She wondered if Aline and Margot had the same doubts, but hid them away. Maybe courage wasn’t something you felt yourself, she thought. Maybe it was something others saw in you.
Wright details first-hand how courageous and creative acts of non-violence can help to unseat impervious-seeming regimes and defy supposedly unmoveable orders. The courageous actions of “ordinary people” is a prominent theme in the book. People who decide to move against an oppressive regime or system act with no knowledge or certainty. They find hope in the fact that what they are doing is right and needs to be done.
‘There’s no such thing as doing nothing’, her father replied. ‘Doing nothing is still a choice. A choice to stand aside and let it happen.’
Although genuinely terrified of the consequences, Lucie decides to make a stand and to use her artistic talents to help the resistance movement. I loved that, as the story progresses we also get to see a young Lucie growing to maturity. We get to understand that her decisions, while quixotic at times, are all part of life’s growing and learning cycle.
Recommended for lovers of historical fiction.
Synopsis /
May, 1940: After a bitter tragedy, young Australian woman Lucie and her French mother Yvonne are forced to leave home and seek help from the only family they have left-Lucie's uncle, Gérard.
As the Second World War engulfs Europe, the two women find themselves trapped in German-occupied Paris, sharing a cramped apartment with the authoritarian Gerard and his extremist views.
Drawing upon her artistic talents, Lucie risks her own safety to engage in small acts of defiance against the occupying forces and the collaborationist French regime, where the authorities reward French citizens for denouncing so-called 'traitors' in their community.
Faced with the escalating brutality of anti-Jewish measures, and the indifference of so many of her fellow Parisians, Lucie must decide how far she will go to defend the rights of others.
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge thank you to Allen & Unwin for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
About the Author:
In 2017, Wright was awarded a six-month Australia Council for the Arts residency at the Cite Internationale des Arts in Paris to carry out the extensive research needed to create her vivid portrayal of life in occupied France. Michelle's debut novel, Small Acts of Defiance, is the fruit of her deep love for Paris - her home for 11 years - as well as her decades of passion for French language, culture and history.
About the Book:
Michelle Wright has written a meticulously, well-researched piece of historical fiction and, as debut novels go, for me it has been a deeply satisfying read. The book is set in occupied France during World War II, and spans the time period from 1940 through to 1945. And, as the title of the book suggests, it explores cause and effect of the individual choices one person can make on society as a whole.
Australia, 1940. After the death of her husband, Yvonne Blackburn decides now is the time to return to her beloved homeland. Yvonne and her daughter Lucie pack their belongings and embark on the long trek by boat to Yvonne’s beloved Paris. Arriving in Paris at a time when the German invasion of Poland was dawning, both Lucie and her mother struggled to adjust to a life so different to the one they had just left behind in Australia. Living with her brother, Gérard, Yvonne realises both she and Lucie are totally dependent on him for their home and livelihood. Paris was now controlled by the brutal hand of the Nazi regime. It had become a place of fear and distrust. As the war effort began to encroach more towards Paris, the Germans began to enforce more rules and regulations upon Parisienne citizens. Food rationing and the beginning of harsh anti-Jewish laws saw many people ‘turn’ on those with Jewish heritage. Wright does a fabulous job of highlighting these atrocities without glorifying them.
Lucie loved to sketch. Her artistic talent and love for drawing [she believed] came from her father, who also loved to draw. Lucie loved nothing more than to roam aimlessly through the streets of Paris sketching sights and to leave her drawings folded up and hidden amongst cracks in buildings or tree trunks.
She carried her notebook with her everywhere and found quiet spots to sketch. She left the drawings where she drew them, folded up and tucked away for others to discover.
It was on one of these outings that Lucie discovered an Art shop and upon entering and admiring all the stocks of brushes and canvases, is introduced to the owner Margot, who happens to be a fellow Australian. Through her burgeoning friendship with Margot, Lucie is introduced to a young Jewish woman called Aline, Aline’s mother Simone and grandfather Samuel. Lucie and Aline become fast friends. When the Nazi’s begin a crackdown on all French-Jews, Alina’s grandfather Samuel is the first of her family to be arrested and sent away to a detention camp.
’And you know, Lucie’, said Samuel. ‘I learned a long time ago that giving up never solves anything’. He clasped his hands together and spoke slowly, his tone suddenly more solemn. ‘Giving up means the absence of hope. And if we don’t hold on to hope, we become complicit, we enable them.’ He gazed through the window at a pigeon struggling to trip the metal railing of the balcony. ‘Their soldiers can occupy our city and our country, but only we can decide if we’ll let them occupy our minds.’
In the face of Nazi brutality, Lucie and Aline decide to start administering ‘small acts of defiance’ and in doing so, refuse to bend to the will of their German oppressor.
’You did well’, said Aline. ‘Nerves of steel.’ Lucie nodded but could feel her fingers trembling. She tried to convince herself it was because of the cold, but she knew that wasn’t true. She’d been terrified out there on her own, doubting she had the courage that was needed. She wondered if Aline and Margot had the same doubts, but hid them away. Maybe courage wasn’t something you felt yourself, she thought. Maybe it was something others saw in you.
Wright details first-hand how courageous and creative acts of non-violence can help to unseat impervious-seeming regimes and defy supposedly unmoveable orders. The courageous actions of “ordinary people” is a prominent theme in the book. People who decide to move against an oppressive regime or system act with no knowledge or certainty. They find hope in the fact that what they are doing is right and needs to be done.
‘There’s no such thing as doing nothing’, her father replied. ‘Doing nothing is still a choice. A choice to stand aside and let it happen.’
Although genuinely terrified of the consequences, Lucie decides to make a stand and to use her artistic talents to help the resistance movement. I loved that, as the story progresses we also get to see a young Lucie growing to maturity. We get to understand that her decisions, while quixotic at times, are all part of life’s growing and learning cycle.
Recommended for lovers of historical fiction.
June 16, 2021
We’re all familiar with stories of the bold spies and daring saboteurs who risked all in the resistance to Germany’s occupation of France during WWII. Michelle Wright takes us on a different path in ‘Small Acts of Defiance’, portraying the struggle of ordinary French people during the horrors and trauma of the Nazi regime. The choices they had to make in their quest for survival: denounce friends, neighbours, colleagues; collaborate with the enemy; become profiteers. Some were understandably numbed by fear and hopelessness into inaction while others appalled by the indignities and privations are compelled to take subversive steps.
Hitler has just invaded Poland and Great Britain declared war on Germany when Australian Lucie Blackburn turns 16. Within months the Victorian family home has burnt down, her father dead in the conflagration. Destitute and homeless, the offer of accommodation and support from her mother Yvonne’s brother in their French homeland is accepted. Lucie acquires a position hand-drawing postcards of famous Parisian landmarks for an art supply shop and through the owner meets and befriends Samuel Hirsch and his grand-daughter Aline. All too soon the bon vivant atmosphere of Paris turns sombre with the arrival of the German occupiers. Lucie finds Uncle Gerard’s support of Petain’s new European order untenable. The Vichy government rule under Marshal Petain sees the official end of the Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite motto, the Reich has branded it’s ownership with swastikas – one even flying from the top of the Eiffel Tower. With the introduction of rationing and curfews France is humiliated.
Aware of Lucie’s artistic skills, Aline encourages her to illustrate pro-De Gaulle tracts for dissemination. This talent is also employed to forge the official stamp required for identity cards. Lucie additionally becomes a ticket seller at a cinema, enabling her to covertly pass on subversive messages. Nazi reprisals for acts of sabotage or violence are severe. These acts of passive resistance are dangerous, but are they futile?
The adoption of increasingly onerous restrictions against Jewish people endangers the Hirsch family. The Jews , no longer employable, running businesses, or attending university must now wear the yellow star. They are banned from public places, their phones disconnected, and only allotted an hour to shop at a time when all supplies have already been sold. Detentions and deportations follow and Samuel disappears subsequent to his arrest. When the Nazi net closes around Aline how far will Lucie go to help her dear friend?
The author has delivered a very impressive and emotive debut novel. The depiction of place and atmosphere is superbly potent. Historical nuggets (including the BBC radio broadcast’s rallying cry: the opening bar of a famous symphony and it’s Morse Code meaning) prove that Michelle Wright’s research was meticulous. She also reminds us that unremarkable people have the ability to defy oppression.
Thanks to Allen & Unwin for an advanced reading copy.
Hitler has just invaded Poland and Great Britain declared war on Germany when Australian Lucie Blackburn turns 16. Within months the Victorian family home has burnt down, her father dead in the conflagration. Destitute and homeless, the offer of accommodation and support from her mother Yvonne’s brother in their French homeland is accepted. Lucie acquires a position hand-drawing postcards of famous Parisian landmarks for an art supply shop and through the owner meets and befriends Samuel Hirsch and his grand-daughter Aline. All too soon the bon vivant atmosphere of Paris turns sombre with the arrival of the German occupiers. Lucie finds Uncle Gerard’s support of Petain’s new European order untenable. The Vichy government rule under Marshal Petain sees the official end of the Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite motto, the Reich has branded it’s ownership with swastikas – one even flying from the top of the Eiffel Tower. With the introduction of rationing and curfews France is humiliated.
Aware of Lucie’s artistic skills, Aline encourages her to illustrate pro-De Gaulle tracts for dissemination. This talent is also employed to forge the official stamp required for identity cards. Lucie additionally becomes a ticket seller at a cinema, enabling her to covertly pass on subversive messages. Nazi reprisals for acts of sabotage or violence are severe. These acts of passive resistance are dangerous, but are they futile?
The adoption of increasingly onerous restrictions against Jewish people endangers the Hirsch family. The Jews , no longer employable, running businesses, or attending university must now wear the yellow star. They are banned from public places, their phones disconnected, and only allotted an hour to shop at a time when all supplies have already been sold. Detentions and deportations follow and Samuel disappears subsequent to his arrest. When the Nazi net closes around Aline how far will Lucie go to help her dear friend?
The author has delivered a very impressive and emotive debut novel. The depiction of place and atmosphere is superbly potent. Historical nuggets (including the BBC radio broadcast’s rallying cry: the opening bar of a famous symphony and it’s Morse Code meaning) prove that Michelle Wright’s research was meticulous. She also reminds us that unremarkable people have the ability to defy oppression.
Thanks to Allen & Unwin for an advanced reading copy.
June 16, 2021
Thank you Allen & Unwin and Michelle for sending us a copy to read and review.
A war has raging fronts other than the main battles and hostilities.
Fragments splinter as patriotism loses its momentum and people fight for their own agendas.
Making any small acts of defiance monumental for humanity.
Lucie and her mother return to Paris after their lives in Australia had a turn for the worse.
It seemed impossible with a strong French Army that France was at any risk in the cancerous scourge of WW2.
As the Germans swept in adorning the streets with the Nazi flags and inflicting their rules, life was to change drastically.
As the screws tightened on the freedoms and liberties of the Jewish population of Paris it began to reveal the true colours of its populous.
Lucie through her love art and possibly her easy going attitude and naive upbringing in Australia befriended a Jewish family.
Incredulously she watched as her friends suffered until their arrest and eventual deportation East.
Her friendship with Aline only strengthened.
The Jewish daughter of her friends was fighting for freedom of her city and risking her life, as traitors within began to report Jewish behaviour expediting capture.
Lucie got involved in saving new born Jewish babies and helping spread freedom scripts through her art while living with an Uncle who conveniently fleeced who ever for his own gain.
This well written story takes through each of the war years and concentrates on the internal issues and battles of Paris within the wider context of the war.
Highlighting that every action that saved a life or helped the war effort in anyway was significant.
I loved that the notion was entertained if Australia experienced this would we turn on each other.
A war has raging fronts other than the main battles and hostilities.
Fragments splinter as patriotism loses its momentum and people fight for their own agendas.
Making any small acts of defiance monumental for humanity.
Lucie and her mother return to Paris after their lives in Australia had a turn for the worse.
It seemed impossible with a strong French Army that France was at any risk in the cancerous scourge of WW2.
As the Germans swept in adorning the streets with the Nazi flags and inflicting their rules, life was to change drastically.
As the screws tightened on the freedoms and liberties of the Jewish population of Paris it began to reveal the true colours of its populous.
Lucie through her love art and possibly her easy going attitude and naive upbringing in Australia befriended a Jewish family.
Incredulously she watched as her friends suffered until their arrest and eventual deportation East.
Her friendship with Aline only strengthened.
The Jewish daughter of her friends was fighting for freedom of her city and risking her life, as traitors within began to report Jewish behaviour expediting capture.
Lucie got involved in saving new born Jewish babies and helping spread freedom scripts through her art while living with an Uncle who conveniently fleeced who ever for his own gain.
This well written story takes through each of the war years and concentrates on the internal issues and battles of Paris within the wider context of the war.
Highlighting that every action that saved a life or helped the war effort in anyway was significant.
I loved that the notion was entertained if Australia experienced this would we turn on each other.
June 8, 2021
This novel has many layers but it holds together beautifully through craftsmanship and incredibly detailed research. Small Acts of Defiance takes the reader on journey and personal growth of the main characters at one level, an authentic history of Paris through Nazi control and cruetly, and French leadership complicity at another, whilst raising questions as relevant today about racism, bigotry and morales as it was back then. The novel confronts the reader with the question whether we would put our lives on the line to defend our family, friends and beliefs.
The writer develops the characters and the story unfolds in a manner that draws the reader on but with unexpected twists that keep us guessing to their ultimate fate. For those familiar with Paris, we get to immerse ourselves once again in the cobblestone streets, the golden glow of the sun on the Seine, the familiar landmarks and the beauty of this wonderful city at a time we can't visit in person! For those who haven't been, then you will want to visit as soon as the world opens its doors to us again.
History is presented in the novel at multiple levels of fascinating detail that delivers a high level of authenticity and makes the story truly believable.
Enjoy!
The writer develops the characters and the story unfolds in a manner that draws the reader on but with unexpected twists that keep us guessing to their ultimate fate. For those familiar with Paris, we get to immerse ourselves once again in the cobblestone streets, the golden glow of the sun on the Seine, the familiar landmarks and the beauty of this wonderful city at a time we can't visit in person! For those who haven't been, then you will want to visit as soon as the world opens its doors to us again.
History is presented in the novel at multiple levels of fascinating detail that delivers a high level of authenticity and makes the story truly believable.
Enjoy!
July 17, 2021
This historical novel depicts life in 1940s Paris under the German Nazi occupation ,with an interesting focal viewpoint of a teenaged Australian girl , a young artistically talented Lucie and her french mother Yvonne, who move back to France after her father dies in tragic circumstances in Australia . Lucie soon meets and befriends the owner of an art supplies shop, Margot who introduces her to her circle including Jewish friends Aline and Samuel, and together as the situation escalates, they engage in small acts of resistance through drawings and distribution of tracts. Lucie and Yvonne live with her uncle Gerard, who provides the French collaborationists narrative and thus demonstrates the common prejudices and mentality of the time
as a counterpoint to Lucie and her friends beliefs and actions .
I think this story had a lot of potential and historical events and the stifling atmosphere of the occupation were beautifully depicted. Unfortunately for me, my enjoyment of the novel was stymied by the dialogue between the characters, which felt to me to be anachronistic like reading exchanges on twitter. Some examples of this : “ Magnificent” she said beaming, “ Picasso would be proud “. Lucie laughed “ Picasso would be horrified, Its one step up from painting by numbers “. “ Dont tell the customers that” said Margot “ and dont sell yourself short . It takes a lot of skill . In any case , youve earned your dough “ . On another chapter, Lucie calls her Uncle “ Gerard” by his first name when speaking to him and says to her mother. “ I think hes the one whose opinion are misguided. I mean, he was a soldier. Doesnt he have a sense of duty to defend his country ? And …” why dont you draw here” suggested Margot “ its not like we’re swarming with customers “ .. That’d be great . “ Done “ …said Margot . ….” We need paint and brushes “ said Aline “do you think we can take some from downstairs ? “ ..” Your’e not serious ? “ replied Lucie. And so on. I felt annoyed reading these kind of conversations throughout the story as I just don't think people of this era spoke in this manner , and they were also behaving as if they already knew what would happen rather than as people who were confronted with events and dealing with uncertainties as they were unfolding in real time. Many thanks to Allen and Unwin for sending me a review copy.
as a counterpoint to Lucie and her friends beliefs and actions .
I think this story had a lot of potential and historical events and the stifling atmosphere of the occupation were beautifully depicted. Unfortunately for me, my enjoyment of the novel was stymied by the dialogue between the characters, which felt to me to be anachronistic like reading exchanges on twitter. Some examples of this : “ Magnificent” she said beaming, “ Picasso would be proud “. Lucie laughed “ Picasso would be horrified, Its one step up from painting by numbers “. “ Dont tell the customers that” said Margot “ and dont sell yourself short . It takes a lot of skill . In any case , youve earned your dough “ . On another chapter, Lucie calls her Uncle “ Gerard” by his first name when speaking to him and says to her mother. “ I think hes the one whose opinion are misguided. I mean, he was a soldier. Doesnt he have a sense of duty to defend his country ? And …” why dont you draw here” suggested Margot “ its not like we’re swarming with customers “ .. That’d be great . “ Done “ …said Margot . ….” We need paint and brushes “ said Aline “do you think we can take some from downstairs ? “ ..” Your’e not serious ? “ replied Lucie. And so on. I felt annoyed reading these kind of conversations throughout the story as I just don't think people of this era spoke in this manner , and they were also behaving as if they already knew what would happen rather than as people who were confronted with events and dealing with uncertainties as they were unfolding in real time. Many thanks to Allen and Unwin for sending me a review copy.
December 12, 2022
I wasn't sure at first about how it was written. But the fact i managed to stress eat my way through 5 chocolate bars at once while reading this perhaps shows it did its job. I did cry, as one does when nazis appear, but sometimes i felt like there were parts that seemed a little unrealistic.
May 7, 2024
This was slow but it wasn't bad. I think I've just read too much WW fiction. 3.5 ⭐ rounded up
November 10, 2022
“It’s not only our precious value of liberty that’s taken a beating in this new France. Equality and fraternity are also fading fast.”
Extraordinary debut novel. World War Two seen from inside occupied France. Honestly tries to capture uncertainty. The protagonist, Lucie, sees the world through artist’s eyes. Portraits drawn, folded, committed to chance.
“Every little way we can find to thumb our noses at the Germans is a small act of resistance.”
Wright takes us deep into her characters as their world upends. Again and again. She captures the reader’s attention and never lets go. Captures the uncertainty And horror of the developing Holocaust. Even gives a fair representation of those who collaborate.
“In the face of futility, only the crazy persist.”
Paris lovers will revel in references to familiar and hidden landmarks.
You are not alone. I see your face, your suffering.
Extraordinary debut novel. World War Two seen from inside occupied France. Honestly tries to capture uncertainty. The protagonist, Lucie, sees the world through artist’s eyes. Portraits drawn, folded, committed to chance.
“Every little way we can find to thumb our noses at the Germans is a small act of resistance.”
Wright takes us deep into her characters as their world upends. Again and again. She captures the reader’s attention and never lets go. Captures the uncertainty And horror of the developing Holocaust. Even gives a fair representation of those who collaborate.
“In the face of futility, only the crazy persist.”
Paris lovers will revel in references to familiar and hidden landmarks.
You are not alone. I see your face, your suffering.
July 13, 2022
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Whenever I learned about the Holocaust in school, the primary focus was on the concentration camps and how the prisoners were treated while living in the squalid conditions set by the Nazi's. This book gave me a different perspective from what I'm used to; the narrator, Lucie, is a young adult who moved from Australia to France right before WWII began, and she befriends a Jewish family while there. Hearing the story from a friend's perspective was very intriguing.
If it wasn't on the cover, I would have been surprised to learn that this is an ARC! It was put together really well and you could tell that the author did her research. I felt connected to the characters and got emotional as the war intensified and began to affect their daily lives. The level of dedication that Lucie showed to her friends was really amazing and she really grew as a character throughout the story. I especially loved how the author created Lucie's uncle to be anti-resistance because it created the perfect amount of conflict within the family; it also led to some interesting plot twists later on. The imagery of this book was beautifully tragic to say the least and I could picture it all.
If there was one thing about this book that I wasn't a fan of, it was the fact that it moved a little too fast, mostly toward the end. It wasn't enough to take off stars for.
Whenever I learned about the Holocaust in school, the primary focus was on the concentration camps and how the prisoners were treated while living in the squalid conditions set by the Nazi's. This book gave me a different perspective from what I'm used to; the narrator, Lucie, is a young adult who moved from Australia to France right before WWII began, and she befriends a Jewish family while there. Hearing the story from a friend's perspective was very intriguing.
If it wasn't on the cover, I would have been surprised to learn that this is an ARC! It was put together really well and you could tell that the author did her research. I felt connected to the characters and got emotional as the war intensified and began to affect their daily lives. The level of dedication that Lucie showed to her friends was really amazing and she really grew as a character throughout the story. I especially loved how the author created Lucie's uncle to be anti-resistance because it created the perfect amount of conflict within the family; it also led to some interesting plot twists later on. The imagery of this book was beautifully tragic to say the least and I could picture it all.
If there was one thing about this book that I wasn't a fan of, it was the fact that it moved a little too fast, mostly toward the end. It wasn't enough to take off stars for.
September 1, 2022
By the time I hit about 30% I was struggling to finish this one. The premise of life in France during WW2 was a good one, but the writing was clunky and didn’t flow well, and there was so much repetition in the book - same conversations, same scenarios, revisiting the same feelings or decisions - that it became a task to get thru.
It also had sections that seemed random and didn’t add or lend anything to the story besides length. There was far more that could have been expounded on to make it interesting like Lucie’s forgeries but instead it was every possible description of creating tracts, or else random events for Lucie, like walking in the park, the dead swan, Emile in every scenario, elaboration at length, etc. I just lost interest really quickly.
Some of the dialogue choice was also weird and out of place. I could only think of Margot as being from Brooklyn, not Britain the way she talked, for example.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. Opinions are solely mine.
It also had sections that seemed random and didn’t add or lend anything to the story besides length. There was far more that could have been expounded on to make it interesting like Lucie’s forgeries but instead it was every possible description of creating tracts, or else random events for Lucie, like walking in the park, the dead swan, Emile in every scenario, elaboration at length, etc. I just lost interest really quickly.
Some of the dialogue choice was also weird and out of place. I could only think of Margot as being from Brooklyn, not Britain the way she talked, for example.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. Opinions are solely mine.
September 1, 2021
with a 1/2 (Paris merits that !!)>
Yet another tale set in Paris during WW2.
The prose was okay and the story unravelled ~ being about an Australian added something new but I just found it too predictable.
Yet another tale set in Paris during WW2.
The prose was okay and the story unravelled ~ being about an Australian added something new but I just found it too predictable.
September 27, 2021
I really wanted to like this book, but it felt clumsy and stilted. The premise of the story showed great promise; Australians emigrating to France on the cusp of WW2; but at no stage did I feel emotionally involved with any of the characters, which made the story feel wooden.
June 12, 2021
Small Acts of Defiance is an enjoyable read. Starting in Australia in 1940, the main character Lucie (as well as her mother Yvonne) travel to Paris to be closer to Gerard, Yvonne's brother.
Lucie begins witnessing events around Paris when Nazi control is beginning to grow. I think one of the strengths of this novel is the reader sees Lucie grows up and how she processes these events and starts to become involved with small acts of defiance.
The book is divided into chapters by years, and as the years pass, Lucie becomes willing to risk more to defend her friends, family and to stay true to herself.
Paris landmarks are frequently mentioned allowing the reader to visualise where the action is taking place. There are a few little surprises along the read, which is always good.
Well worth reading.
Lucie begins witnessing events around Paris when Nazi control is beginning to grow. I think one of the strengths of this novel is the reader sees Lucie grows up and how she processes these events and starts to become involved with small acts of defiance.
The book is divided into chapters by years, and as the years pass, Lucie becomes willing to risk more to defend her friends, family and to stay true to herself.
Paris landmarks are frequently mentioned allowing the reader to visualise where the action is taking place. There are a few little surprises along the read, which is always good.
Well worth reading.
November 8, 2021
I really want to give this book 2 stars due to the "wooden" style of writing. Some sentences do not flow well and the life of the characters are set around certain historical events or places rather than those places or events are part of the story. It becomes snippets of ideas rather than flowing together well.
I gave it 3 stars only because I can appreciate the hard work gone into details. But I won't recommend or even read another book by the author, it has little substance.
I gave it 3 stars only because I can appreciate the hard work gone into details. But I won't recommend or even read another book by the author, it has little substance.
January 3, 2022
2.25 stars
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i really don't know how to explain what it was about this book that made me dislike it. connecting with the main character felt difficult, and much of this book could have been further refined/taken out to achieve a more meaningful effect. SOME of the imagery was really beautiful, and the ideas of survival, humanity and life were incredible powerful, but this book just fell so flat. this perspective was interesting, but so much of the dialogue was clunky and unrealistic.
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i really don't know how to explain what it was about this book that made me dislike it. connecting with the main character felt difficult, and much of this book could have been further refined/taken out to achieve a more meaningful effect. SOME of the imagery was really beautiful, and the ideas of survival, humanity and life were incredible powerful, but this book just fell so flat. this perspective was interesting, but so much of the dialogue was clunky and unrealistic.
July 12, 2022
I enjoy the premise of the novel. The idea behind the story is interesting and has potential for a great novel. However, it lacks in voice and character development. Writing in third person made the characters distant—especially the mother daughter relationship. I also felt the sections where French was included didn’t always flow. It was overall hard to get into and lacking in style. #NetGalley #GoodreadsFirstReads #FirstReads
September 9, 2021
DNF at 45% read. I also read a few other books in between sections of this book. Just didn’t get into it. Instead of eagerly anticipating the next opportunity to read, it felt like a chore.
The characters and the plot were very basic. Absolutely nothing to grab my attention.
The characters and the plot were very basic. Absolutely nothing to grab my attention.
August 10, 2021
I so enjoyed Michelle Wright’s short story collection Fine, and the arrival of her debut novel Small Acts of Defiance (Allen and Unwin 2021) was much anticipated and worth the wait. An historical novel set during the early 40’s in WWII France, Small Acts of Defiance is a beautifully crafted story about just that – the small ways in which people resisted the German invasion and managed to stay alive, to assist others and to stay sane during the Occupation.
The novel opens in 1940 when, after a terrible tragedy, young Australian Lucie and her French mother Yvonne are forced to relocate to France to their only remaining family able to offer support, Yvonne’s brother Gerard. It seems crazy to move towards the war rather than stay on the other side of the world, but Lucie’s family’s circumstances are entirely believable. What they don’t immediately understand is not only are they relocating to a soon to be occupied German Paris, but they must share close quarters with Gerard, who is not as well off as he makes out (or is he?), plus he has extremist views that do not sit well with his sister and especially not with his niece, Lucie. Paris during the occupied years was a dangerous place to be – neighbours ready to denounce other neighbours as traitors, French citizens of Jewish descent discriminated against at first by the closing of their businesses and the limiting of their activities, and then fatally as they are summarily rounded up and transported to the infamous camps. All of this is viewed through the eyes of Lucie, who has only ever lived in the relative freedom of Australia and cannot countenance the terrible cruelty and brutality she is witnessing.
She befriends several people, both young and old, through her interest in art, and one particular friend Aline is an outspoken and courageous rebel who is unwilling to go quietly in the face of German aggression. But with so many citizens collaborating with the Nazis, every action Aline and her friends take must be secretive and clandestine.
I love the use of art as a form of resistance in this story. From the very beginning, Lucie sketches small drawings – of people she meets or notices in cafes, of the changing landscape around her – and when she is done, simply folds the paper in four and hides it in a tree or under a rock, in a crack in the paving stones or slipped into a stranger’s jacket pocket. This simple but evocative and moving idea sums up the whole narrative of the story – small acts of defiance which may even go unnoticed, but which are completed with a healthy dose of resistance and rebelliousness, boldness and cheekiness. When Lucie begins to expand her activities to include artistic pursuits that spread the resistance message, her heart and mind open to the enormity of the injustice she is witnessing, the small ways in which she might be able to help her fellow Parisians, and ultimately the incredible danger in which she places not only herself, but all those around her, through her actions.
The setting – both time and place – are authentic and very realistic. The author spent many years living in France and this shows clearly in her understanding of culture, place and local history. The characters emerge as engaging and compelling, and certainly with Lucie, we witness her growth over the course of the five-year span of the novel, as she transforms from naive, shy and unsophisticated to a young woman with considered values and morals informed by her experiences, a woman who is prepared to stand up for her beliefs and to act on her courage. This is not an easy journey, however, and all the way through the novel we are unsure how far Lucie will go to assuage her sense of injustice, and how much she might risk to help those she cares about.
This is a well-written narrative with authentic dialogue and a great eye for the detail of the time. By creating Lucie as an Australian character transposed to France, Wright has avoided the dreaded appropriation problem, as we see everything and everyone through Lucie’s eyes. Indeed, that is possibly what strengthens the novel – the perspective of an outsider who has not been gradually boiling in the water but has been dropped straight into the pot. Lucie sees situations in an honest and perhaps naïve way that is different from the complex loyalties of her French companions. The injustices are much more black and white for her, which allows her to express her anger, her disappointment and her disbelief in a different way than the French locals.
The novel is also an exploration of the affect of war on individuals in terms of their mental health and their reactions to subsequent conflicts. The characters who survived the atrocities of WWI are wary of the coming uncertainty of WWII, as of course they are right to be. Wright paints a thoroughly believable and moving picture of what it might have been like to live in France during the inexorable incursion of the Germans, and how that might have changed life, for Jewish and non-Jewish alike. She is an easy character with whom to identify, and her doubts, uncertainties, hesitations, disgust, rage and indeed, her small acts of defiance, are all relatable and comprehensible.
This is a wonderful text of a time much written about, but perhaps not from this particular angle before. An Australian girl in Paris facing the Nazi horror and the implications for her Jewish friends – an intimate and poignant tale. There is violence and death and loss in this book, but there is also art and friendship and hope.
The novel opens in 1940 when, after a terrible tragedy, young Australian Lucie and her French mother Yvonne are forced to relocate to France to their only remaining family able to offer support, Yvonne’s brother Gerard. It seems crazy to move towards the war rather than stay on the other side of the world, but Lucie’s family’s circumstances are entirely believable. What they don’t immediately understand is not only are they relocating to a soon to be occupied German Paris, but they must share close quarters with Gerard, who is not as well off as he makes out (or is he?), plus he has extremist views that do not sit well with his sister and especially not with his niece, Lucie. Paris during the occupied years was a dangerous place to be – neighbours ready to denounce other neighbours as traitors, French citizens of Jewish descent discriminated against at first by the closing of their businesses and the limiting of their activities, and then fatally as they are summarily rounded up and transported to the infamous camps. All of this is viewed through the eyes of Lucie, who has only ever lived in the relative freedom of Australia and cannot countenance the terrible cruelty and brutality she is witnessing.
She befriends several people, both young and old, through her interest in art, and one particular friend Aline is an outspoken and courageous rebel who is unwilling to go quietly in the face of German aggression. But with so many citizens collaborating with the Nazis, every action Aline and her friends take must be secretive and clandestine.
I love the use of art as a form of resistance in this story. From the very beginning, Lucie sketches small drawings – of people she meets or notices in cafes, of the changing landscape around her – and when she is done, simply folds the paper in four and hides it in a tree or under a rock, in a crack in the paving stones or slipped into a stranger’s jacket pocket. This simple but evocative and moving idea sums up the whole narrative of the story – small acts of defiance which may even go unnoticed, but which are completed with a healthy dose of resistance and rebelliousness, boldness and cheekiness. When Lucie begins to expand her activities to include artistic pursuits that spread the resistance message, her heart and mind open to the enormity of the injustice she is witnessing, the small ways in which she might be able to help her fellow Parisians, and ultimately the incredible danger in which she places not only herself, but all those around her, through her actions.
The setting – both time and place – are authentic and very realistic. The author spent many years living in France and this shows clearly in her understanding of culture, place and local history. The characters emerge as engaging and compelling, and certainly with Lucie, we witness her growth over the course of the five-year span of the novel, as she transforms from naive, shy and unsophisticated to a young woman with considered values and morals informed by her experiences, a woman who is prepared to stand up for her beliefs and to act on her courage. This is not an easy journey, however, and all the way through the novel we are unsure how far Lucie will go to assuage her sense of injustice, and how much she might risk to help those she cares about.
This is a well-written narrative with authentic dialogue and a great eye for the detail of the time. By creating Lucie as an Australian character transposed to France, Wright has avoided the dreaded appropriation problem, as we see everything and everyone through Lucie’s eyes. Indeed, that is possibly what strengthens the novel – the perspective of an outsider who has not been gradually boiling in the water but has been dropped straight into the pot. Lucie sees situations in an honest and perhaps naïve way that is different from the complex loyalties of her French companions. The injustices are much more black and white for her, which allows her to express her anger, her disappointment and her disbelief in a different way than the French locals.
The novel is also an exploration of the affect of war on individuals in terms of their mental health and their reactions to subsequent conflicts. The characters who survived the atrocities of WWI are wary of the coming uncertainty of WWII, as of course they are right to be. Wright paints a thoroughly believable and moving picture of what it might have been like to live in France during the inexorable incursion of the Germans, and how that might have changed life, for Jewish and non-Jewish alike. She is an easy character with whom to identify, and her doubts, uncertainties, hesitations, disgust, rage and indeed, her small acts of defiance, are all relatable and comprehensible.
This is a wonderful text of a time much written about, but perhaps not from this particular angle before. An Australian girl in Paris facing the Nazi horror and the implications for her Jewish friends – an intimate and poignant tale. There is violence and death and loss in this book, but there is also art and friendship and hope.
October 31, 2023
Michelle Wright's "Small Acts of Defiance" a story about a young Australian girl named, Lucie and her mother, Yvonne who were forced to leave home and flee to France. This book is an engaging retelling of history that sheds light on the often overlooked bravery and resistance in historical events. Wright's excellent writing expresses the emotions of human endurance despite hardship, making it a compelling read for those interested in history. I chose to read this book because it had a cross-curricular connection with history classes as it provided a good exploration of events, offering personal insights into the lives of individuals who stood against prevailing norms. Although the book did have some boring moments and despite how the author did a good job in portraying personal experiences there were some aspects I didn’t fully grasp, and certain characters, like Gerard, who I didn’t necessarily like. I didn't necessarily like Gerard due to the fact he was found out of stealing from Jewish people’s apartments. Although he did do it for a somewhat good reason it still doesn’t justify what he did.
"Small Acts of Defiance" deserves about a four star rating for its realistic depiction of history through its narrative of resilience. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a deeper understanding of historical events set during WWII.
"Small Acts of Defiance" deserves about a four star rating for its realistic depiction of history through its narrative of resilience. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a deeper understanding of historical events set during WWII.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2021
Well worth reading especially as it gives a fresh perspective on how the French nation dealt with the realities of the German occupation of Paris. As any student of history understands, the French have tried to shy away from the truth of the collaboration of their police force and their citizens in denouncing Jewish neighbours and rounding them up for death in German concentration camps.
Young Australian girl Lucie and her French mother, Yvonne, return to live in Paris with Gerard, her mother’s brother. They leave Australia after their father has killed himself ( and tried to kill them too) in a house fire. The tragic effects of WW1 military service are demonstrated in the deterioration of their father’s sanity and by Gerard’s anger at those he considers traitors to France, namely French Jewish citizens. He is a sad, tortured character whose actions are in keeping with the misery of losing his wife and daughter although this does not excuse him.
A rich cast of characters and I liked the “ small acts of defiance “ that Lucie did through her art. I won’t reveal too much of the plot and it had many unexpected twists and turns so be prepared to read long into the night as the action is quite compelling. I felt the reflection by Lucie upon hearing De Gaulle’s victory speech ( page 326) was so accurate. “ She couldn’t help but think that, in order to heal the nation and focus on the future, the truth that he was turning away from,the shame of collaboration,was too big a truth to remain hidden in the shadows.” Well done Michelle Wright for shining a light on this sad chapter of French history.
Young Australian girl Lucie and her French mother, Yvonne, return to live in Paris with Gerard, her mother’s brother. They leave Australia after their father has killed himself ( and tried to kill them too) in a house fire. The tragic effects of WW1 military service are demonstrated in the deterioration of their father’s sanity and by Gerard’s anger at those he considers traitors to France, namely French Jewish citizens. He is a sad, tortured character whose actions are in keeping with the misery of losing his wife and daughter although this does not excuse him.
A rich cast of characters and I liked the “ small acts of defiance “ that Lucie did through her art. I won’t reveal too much of the plot and it had many unexpected twists and turns so be prepared to read long into the night as the action is quite compelling. I felt the reflection by Lucie upon hearing De Gaulle’s victory speech ( page 326) was so accurate. “ She couldn’t help but think that, in order to heal the nation and focus on the future, the truth that he was turning away from,the shame of collaboration,was too big a truth to remain hidden in the shadows.” Well done Michelle Wright for shining a light on this sad chapter of French history.
July 23, 2021
What a wonderful book about a young and very strong willed Australian girl/woman, Lucie. The story revolves around German occupied France in the early 1940's where Lucie is living with her French born mother. What evolves is a story of war, hatred, survival and kindness.
What I love about this book is the way it flows through these troubled times, from a normal life through a terrible war, danger and not knowing who you can trust. I love the way Lucie plays her part in defying the Germans and their supporters, helping her friend Aline and other Jews and how she uses her strengths and talents to do this.
This is a book with strong and well thought out characters, a book that makes you emotional and makes you realise how lucky you are. Michelle Wright did a wonderful job with her research, making this story so real. It drew me in and took me on a journey that was full of hard knocks, very emotional but in some since very uplifting to know how many people have such kindness and strength in their hearts.
I would recommend it to anyone who lives a good read.
October 9, 2021
Small Acts of Defiance by Michelle Wright takes you into the heart of occupied Paris during WWII and lets you view it through the eyes of a young Australian woman, Lucie, who has moved there after the tragic loss of her father.
As Lucie and her mother, Yvonne, who is originally from Paris, navigate the contrasts and constraints of their new life, you begin to understand the enormity of the challenges Parisians faced during WWII. Oppression, extremism, injustice, and scarcity invade every part of life for Lucie, but in her own way, she takes steps to strike back.
In this novel, Michelle Wright offers a detailed and exceptionally unique insight into WWII that is delicately layered and nuanced. This is a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it.
As Lucie and her mother, Yvonne, who is originally from Paris, navigate the contrasts and constraints of their new life, you begin to understand the enormity of the challenges Parisians faced during WWII. Oppression, extremism, injustice, and scarcity invade every part of life for Lucie, but in her own way, she takes steps to strike back.
In this novel, Michelle Wright offers a detailed and exceptionally unique insight into WWII that is delicately layered and nuanced. This is a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it.
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